Chicago (April 14, 2016) — Lincoln Park Zoo is thrilled to announce the second successful snow monkey birth of the season at Regenstein Macaque Forest. The Japanese macaque (pronounced məˈkɑk), also known as a snow monkey was born April 13.

The infant is clinging tightly to 11-year-old mother, Ono, and has yet to be sexed or named. Ono was recommended to breed as a part of the Japanese Macaque Species Survival Plan (SSP), which cooperatively manages the accredited zoo snow monkey population. This is the second successful birth for Ono at Lincoln Park Zoo. In 2015, Ono gave birth to the first macaque for Regenstein Macaque Forest, a male named Obu.

“Both Ono and the infant are being closely monitored by animal care staff and the infant appears to be healthy,” said Curator of Primates Maureen Leahy. “We continue to be cautiously optimistic as the troop continues to grow.”

The infant joins the troop of ten snow monkeys at Regenstein Macaque Forest, including a 1-month-old female infant and 1-year-old male (sibling), Obu.

“Every successful snow monkey birth represents diversity in the accredited zoo population and the dedication of our animal care staff,” said Leahy.

Both Ono and the infant are currently on exhibit at Regenstein Macaque Forest, which is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Japanese macaques are found throughout most of Japan and are known for their tolerance for extreme climates, from sub-tropical lowlands to sub-alpine regions. While snow monkey populations do have alpha males, rank is determined by matrilines, meaning societal rank is inherited by offspring from their mothers.

For more information about Regenstein Macaque Forest or snow monkeys, visit snowmonkeys.org.

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Lincoln Park Zoo, a historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, is dedicated to connecting people with nature by providing a free, family-oriented wildlife experience. A leader in conservation science both globally and locally, the zoo exemplifies the highest quality animal care and educational outreach. The not-for-profit zoo, managed by The Lincoln Park Zoological Society, is a member-supported organization and one of the nation’s only free, privately managed zoos. For more information, call 312 -742-2000 or visit lpzoo.org.